Description
Creamy Mexican Restaurant-Style Cheese Dip promises a flavor explosion straight from authentic kitchens. Rich queso blends perfectly with bold spices, inviting friends to gather and savor each delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients (Cheese and Dairy):
- 1 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz) white American cheese, shredded or cubed
- ½ cup (50 g / 1.8 oz) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fluid ounces) whole milk
Thickening and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt, to taste
Optional Garnish and Heat Ingredients:
- 1 small jalapeno, finely diced (optional, for heat)
- Fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Create a roux foundation by gently melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium temperature. Whisk flour into the molten butter, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture transforms into a golden, fragrant base.
- Introduce milk gradually, pouring in small increments while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Maintain consistent stirring until the mixture develops a velvety, slightly thickened consistency.
- Lower the heat and incorporate white American cheese and Monterey Jack, stirring methodically to ensure complete integration. Continue blending until the cheeses melt seamlessly, creating a uniform, silky texture.
- Enhance the flavor profile by introducing garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Fold in finely chopped jalapeno for an optional spicy kick. Taste and calibrate seasoning with a delicate sprinkle of salt.
- Transfer the molten cheese mixture to a decorative serving vessel. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh, chopped cilantro, vibrant diced tomatoes, or additional jalapeno slices for visual and flavor complexity.
- Accompany the dip with crisp, golden tortilla chips, serving immediately while the cheese remains warm and luxuriously smooth.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching and ensure even heat distribution when making the roux.
- Whisk continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps and create a silky smooth base for the cheese sauce.
- Choose white American cheese for authenticity, but you can substitute with a mild cheddar if needed for a different flavor profile.
- Control the heat carefully when melting cheese to avoid separation or becoming grainy, keeping the temperature low and stirring constantly.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapenos or adding a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
- Make it dietary-friendly by using lactose-free milk and cheese alternatives for those with dairy sensitivities.
- Prep ingredients beforehand to ensure a quick and smooth cooking process, reducing stress in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg